Google Enables Pixel 2 HDR+ Feature For Third-Party Photo Apps

Some Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL owners might not be aware that their handsets include something called the Pixel Visual Core. It’s the first custom imaging co-processor that Google has ever made. It enables third-party apps like Instagram and Snapchat to take HDR+ quality pictures that users could previously take only with the native camera app. Google disabled this functionality by default but it has now confirmed that Pixel Visual Core is being enabled for third-party apps as well.

Pixel Visual Core uses computational photography and machine learning to improve image quality in photo apps. Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL owners will now be able to take HDR+ photos right within apps like Instagram, Snapchat, WhatsApp, and many other apps.

Users don’t have to fiddle around with any complex settings to get the HDR+ results. They just need to take a photo as they already do and the device will handle the rest. The company has also confirmed that it’s going to add new augmented reality stickers themed around winter sports later this week.

The update that enables Pixel Visual Core is now being rolled out over-the-air and it’s going to go live in all regions over the next few days. Other Pixel software improvements are coming as well so users should definitely download the February monthly update when they get a notification for it.